An essential stop for those wanting to learn about Taranaki's heritage and history, visit Puke Ariki Museum and Library in the heart of New Plymouth. What serves as a simple visitor's information centre in most cities is expanded greatly here into a fully-fledged cultural facility that offers a comprehensive look at what makes Taranaki tick.

Puke Ariki should serve as one of the first stops for visitors to the Taranaki region in general, as it does a great job of incorporating the likes of regional information, European and Maori history and activities to keep the kids entertained as well. History buffs will be in their element here, as the museum has various exhibits detailing Taranaki's past with heritage collections featuring objects of all kinds including photographs, documents, maps and other relics both Maori and European alike.

Natural history also features prominently, and a range of animal and plant species both living and extinct are covered at the museum, while the geology of Taranaki and its volcanic mountain which has become a symbol of the region as a whole are covered in great detail. Staff at the museum are extremely helpful and will quickly point you in the right direction or answer any questions you may have on the centre, New Plymouth or Taranaki as a whole.

Lastly, for the budget-conscious traveller, it's always a bonus that entry to the museum is absolutely free – which is simply another small factor that contributes to making this a must-visit.